Air Zoo offers free event for military families

The holiday season is traditionally a time to spend with family, but military families often have to spend the season away from their loved ones. This year, the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo, Mich., is offering a free family event on Friday, Dec. 11, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. for the family members of deployed troops, active duty military members and their family as a gesture of appreciation for all they do.

“Often times, the family members of our armed forces are forgotten as our country appropriately rallies behind our troops,” says Bob Ellis, executive director of the Air Zoo. “This a way for us to show these family members that we recognize and appreciate that they too are making sacrifices and that we truly care.”

“The Air Zoo Supports Those Who Serve” event will feature catering by Treat Street Catering, family photos (and videos for families of deployed troops) by The Wedding Doctor and giveaways including two free roundtrip tickets to Orlando on Direct Air. Other local businesses that have donated prizes include B-93, Celtic Roots, Cornwell’s Turkeyville USA, Country Inn & Suites Kalamazoo, Erbelli’s, Fairfield Inn Kalamazoo, Firekeepers Casino, Holiday Inn West Kalamazoo, Panopoulos Salons, Red Robin and Treat Street. The event also includes all the Air Zoo rides and attractions in the Main Campus and hands-on crafts and activities for the children. Country Inn and Suites in Kalamazoo is also offering discounted hotel rooms the night of the event.

“This is truly a thank-you event from our entire community,” explains Ellis. “Even our employees are giving their time to help make this event one that will be long remembered.”

RSVPs are needed by Tuesday, Dec. 8, in order to have enough food on hand for the event. Valid military and dependent ID will be needed for entry. To RSVP for this free event, call 269-350-2812.